Edward McDaniel was born in Laurens, South Carolina on September 15, 1946 to D.A. and Ethel T. McDaniel, who predeceased him. He graduated Sanders High School in 1964 and South Carolina State University in 1968 with a degree in Industrial Engineering. A student at SCSU during the infamous Orangeburg Massacre, he was a staunch proponent of civil rights and worked diligently to impact the movement throughout his lifetime. After departing SCSU, Edward studied for gospel ministry at Johnson C. Smith University School of Theology in Charlotte, NC. When the school discontinued its theology program, McDaniel enlisted in the United States Navy. Upon his discharge he returned to Laurens and entered partnership with his father in D.A. McDaniel & Son Masonry Contracting. Ed spent a lifetime as an accomplished businessman owning and operating McDaniel Construction& Rentals, LaForrest Community Care Center, McDaniel ABC Stores, and Two Brothers Check Cashing. He was a long- time, dedicated member of Bethel AME Church of Laurens and a committed brother of Mu Pi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. A passionate community servant, he was the longest serving member of Laurens County Council in its history, first elected in 1989. For his many years of distinguished service, in 2010 Edward received the Henry Laurens Award, the highest and most prestigious award bestowed by the County of Laurens to its citizens. Edward"�s wit, wisdom, work ethic, and integrity have left an indelible impression on the community, friends, family, and countless others he has met throughout the journey of life. Ed died peacefully at NHC of Laurens on Wednesday, March 18, 2015, at the age of 68. He is survived by his wife, Sheila Callahan McDaniel; sons, Garrett and Lee McDaniel; granddaughter, Tamiyah and sisters Magueriette McDaniel and Susan Cooke. Funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Monday, March 23, 2015 at Poplar Spring A.M.E. Church, Laurens, with Pastor Adrian R. Kollock and Rev. Dr. Leslie D. Callahan officiating. Burial will be in the Westview Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 5:30 p.m. until 6 p.m., Sunday, March 22, 2015 at the Beasley Funeral Home, Laurens. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to: SCSU Foundation "In memory of Edward McDaniel Class of 1968"� PO Box 7187 Orangeburg, SC 29117 or www.SCSU.edu "GIVE! "� Designation "Other"�: In Memory of Edward McDaniel Class of 1968"�